On September 25, 2018, Don was met by a choir of angels and was taken to his heavenly home at the age of 81 years. Don passed away at St. Joseph Hospital in Marshfield after a very short bout with cancer.
Don was born on January 16, 1937, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, to Frederick and Marion Peters. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Jim and Richard and stepson Kenny Kloes.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 32 years, Bonnie, and his children, Shelly (Paul) Cantwell, Connie Fox, Donald (Elizabeth), Steve (Michelle), Kelly Dinges, Christopher, and stepson Bryan (Debbie) Kloes. Grandfather to Tisha, Kaitlyn, Amanda, Echo, Calli, Toni, Cara, Brendan, Alicia, Danielle, Katie, Bree, Carly and Haley. Great grandfather to Khiahra, Rylan, Levi, Alexandria, Chase, Taylin, Brandy, Larry, Justice, Isaiah, McKenna, Taylor, Mason, Wyatt, and Baby Leda. Further survived by his siblings; Gary Peters and Marcia Hammons.
Throughout his life, Don dabbled in many things, including farming, auto repair and inventing! The main occupation for 64 years of his life was the band instrument repair business. Don got his start as a young man working for the Getzen Company in Elkhorn, WI. The rest is history. That was the beginning of owning and operating various music shops and repair business. For many years, he owned and operated Band Instrument Repair in Merrill, Wisconsin. In 1986, he founded Professional Brass Refinishing, a business that served churches throughout the country. He refinished church alter ware of every kind, from candle sticks to tabernacles. In Rhinelander, WI, he opened Lakeland Music and Supply. Here he serviced the many, many schools in the area and created close relationship with numerous band directors and musicians. Lakeland Music was then dissolved and Northland Music came into play. Northland Music is now owned and operated by Will and Nicki Roffers.
Don’s legacy in the music industry is recognized throughout the country.
Don enjoyed many other activities. He was an avid golfer. He and Bonnie were on golf courses around the country. He enjoyed traveling everywhere, but especially his Germany trips. Camping was another favorite, especially at “Buffalo Lake Campground” when Danielle and Katie were along.
He will be remembered by his many family members and friends.
Services for Don were held at Nimsgern Funeral Home in Woodruff with Pastor Stephen Luchterhand officiating. Internment was at Wilderness Rest Cemetery in Lake Tomahawk, Wisconsin.
Online condolences can be shared at www.nimsgernfunetal.com
Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.